Dextron 2 ATF or P/S Fluid?

[txstang347]

So whats the deal with "everyone" suggesting putting automatic transmission fluid in instead of power steering fluid after replacing the p/s pump and rack and pinion? I'm finishing up this job tomorrow and wondering if I should add Type F ATF or P/S fluid and what the difference is?

 

[HISSIN50]

Type F or Ford PS fluid meeting the correct spec.

We simply don't use a PS fluid per se (though I know a lot of folks who use PS fluid and Mercon, with seemingly no real side effects).

 

[85_SS_302_Coupe]

I've always used DexIII and never had a problem.

 

[Lemonade]

This is what I use:

Lems

 

[cenok is family]

i've always just used regular power steering fluid. no known problems

 

[93gtmustang]

My 93 GT manual specs dexron II.

 

[HISSIN50]

What Factory Ford manual calls for Dexron?

One issue is seal compatibility with different fluids. Not to mention that Type F has a higher coefficient of friction.

Lems, as I recall, RL PS fluid specifies that it's good for PS systems requiring Type F.

 

[txstang347]

What Factory Ford manual calls for Dexron?

One issue is seal compatibility with different fluids. Not to mention that Type F has a higher coefficient of friction.

Lems, as I recall, RL PS fluid specifies that it's good for PS systems requiring Type F.

So what should I put in the reservoir for the first time and I guess through out the life of the new power steering set up? I have a 1991 Mustang GT Convertible and don't have the factory manual. Chilton doesn't really specify.

 

[HISSIN50]

So what should I put in the reservoir for the first time and I guess through out the life of the new power steering set up? I have a 1991 Mustang GT Convertible and don't have the factory manual. Chilton doesn't really specify.

The owner's manual for my '88 explicitly calls for Type F.
The 94's manual is a little more cryptic but the listed part number references Type F.

I would use a synthetic that meets Ford's requirement for Type F in PS systems (see Redline's PS fluid verbage for instance - they are quite explicit. ).

Good luck.

 

[93gtmustang]

What Factory Ford manual calls for Dexron?

One issue is seal compatibility with different fluids. Not to mention that Type F has a higher coefficient of friction.

Lems, as I recall, RL PS fluid specifies that it's good for PS systems requiring Type F.

My bad memory.
I just checked my manual.
Motorcraft Automatic Transmission and Power Steering Fluid-Type F
Ford Specification ESW-M2C33-F

 

[Darkwriter77]

I've always just used plain power steering fluid. I was always under the impression that the only automaker that had a "special" fluid of their own was Honda...?

 

[Shakerhood]

My Owners Manual and Service Manual both call for Type F.